Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
HARARE-THREE Zimbabwean golfers with intellectual disabilities are set to represent the nation at the prestigious Macau Golf Masters tournament, thanks to timely sponsorship support from local investment firm Bard Santner.
The trio, Emmanuel Gutu, Simbarashe Mushayi, and Selassi Chiwisa, will participate in the annual event, scheduled to run from June 21 to 28 in Macau, China.
The tournament is widely regarded as the “Champions League” of golf for athletes with intellectual disabilities, drawing participation from over 50 countries.
In a major boost to their preparations, the athletes received golf kits and logistical support from Bard Santner during a handover ceremony held at Royal Harare Golf Club, where the team has been training under the guidance of their coach and head of delegation, Simon Murungweni.
“Here at Royal Harare, we host the team every Monday. Our philosophy is centred on inclusion and recognising talent. Those heading to Macau are treated like kings,” he said.
The support from Bard Santner goes beyond equipment, as the company aims to transform lives by instilling confidence in athletes through sport.
“Sport is a unifier, we want the golfers to do well and being Special Olympics to us about them realising that they can do things so we want them to build their confidence and know that they can things just like those without disabilities,” Bard Santner Executive Director, Tatenda Hungwe said.
Zimbabwe has previously performed well at the Macau Golf Masters, and this year, expectations are high that the team will bring home more medals.
The tournament not only provides a competitive platform for golfers with intellectual disabilities, but also serves as a global celebration of diversity and inclusion in sport.
